Fragrant Nature Kollam: A quiet escape with character and contrast

The road to Fragrant Nature Resort in Kollam is a true test of patience and curiosity. A narrow, winding path meanders through crowded neighbourhoods where daily life spills onto the streets, and the locals seem mildly bemused by the flow of traffic. It leaves one wondering: “Can a well-rated resort really exist at the end of this?”

Doubt lingers as the road narrows into a slender, seemingly forgotten lane. But just when uncertainty peaks, the scene shifts—and a serene transformation begins to unfold.

The gates of Fragrant Nature open into a lush, tranquil paradise, instantly dissolving the fatigue of the journey. A floral welcome and the traditional touch of sandal paste on the forehead soothe frayed nerves.

The modest wooden-finished reception exudes both warmth and quiet class. Just beside it, an Ayurvedic wellness desk welcomes guests with clear explanations of the diverse therapies available.

First impressions and dining delights

We headed straight to the Kerala-style restaurant adjacent to the reception. The upstairs open-air dining area is the popular choice, offering a relaxed atmosphere with lake views, while the air-conditioned ground floor serves as a quieter alternative.

Though pricing leans toward the higher side, the quality of both food and ambience makes it worthwhile. A beer and wine counter adds a casual, welcoming touch, and the manager’s attentive presence reassures guests that every detail is being looked after.

The complimentary breakfast is truly satisfying, with a generous spread catering to varied palates. An amusing note: rogue crows have developed a knack for swooping in and seizing unattended food if you leave your table even briefly—a quirky reminder that even luxury settings have their moments of playful unpredictability.

Villas, cottages, and the view

One of Fragrant Nature’s greatest strengths is its thoughtfully designed layout. The resort unfolds like a hillside village beside the lake, offering a range of accommodations spread across varying elevations.

From lake-facing two-storey buildings with lifts (ideal for elderly guests) to premium private villas with dedicated pools and romantic cottages tucked away in verdant corners, there’s something to suit every kind of traveller.

Writers, couples, introverts, and honeymooners will especially appreciate the secluded clusters of cottages. The pathways—lined with flowering creepers and ornamental arches—invite lingering strolls throughout the day. By night, though the paths are lit, the interplay of light and shadow may gently unsettle the overly sensitive.

Facilities galore!

Fragrant Nature offers a range of thoughtful, well-maintained facilities that elevate the experience:

• Private boathouse: Scenic lake rides that let you drift in tune with the stillness.
• Café: Nestled in a quiet corner, ideal for tea and conversation.
• Recreational amenities: A gym, badminton court, and landscaped lawns linked by garden paths.
• Goose enclosure: A quaint enclosure designed as a visual delight, especially for children. While the space is modest and the birds roam free only in the mornings, it adds a rustic charm to the setting.

Practical thoughts

Each room is equipped with standard amenities—including a TV, kettle, toiletries, and an iron upon request. The staff are polite and eager, though occasionally a bit tentative—additional training could help boost confidence and efficiency.

Room rates vary by type, typically ranging from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000, depending on season and category. While the peaceful charm and immersive setting justify the price, a few practical points to consider:

• Dining alternatives nearby are limited; heading into Kollam town can be time-consuming, especially with roadwork underway.
• A cluster of residential homes borders the property, at some points just feet away—a gentle nudge that even serene escapes exist alongside everyday life.
• Local celebrations may bring the occasional burst of devotional music in the mornings.
• A stray dog was seen on the premises during our visit—not threatening, but a point the management might want to monitor.
• For families with small children, the lakefront is picturesque, but attentive supervision is advisable.

The final word

Fragrant Nature is more than a resort—it’s a state of mind, a calming pause, a gentle exhale. The complimentary evening boat ride across the tranquil Paravoor Lake is a highlight, offering a quiet reminder of nature’s healing presence.

What begins as a journey marked by scepticism blossoms into deep contentment. Here, time slows, routines melt away, and the world feels just distant enough.

Imagine Kerala as a slender canvas stretched along the Arabian Sea. Fragrant Nature nestles close to its southern edge, where land, lake, and sky meet in serene unison. This resort feels like a poetic extension of the land—a haven that reaches into the lake and wraps you in its embrace.

Perhaps the most telling sign of its charm is how effortlessly it inspires wonder. You’ll find yourself not out of habit, but from genuine delight, capturing moments and memories at every turn—because here, every pause reveals something worth cherishing.

The writer is Picture Editor, Malayala Manorama. 

Tourism